tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65915023066898835502024-03-19T14:17:13.030-07:00Dandy MommyLive Simply
Laugh Often
Love DeeplyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-54959863344118088342014-05-21T11:24:00.001-07:002014-05-21T11:24:51.380-07:007 REASONS WHY I WONT MISS MY PUMP!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipCeDJY4snkAChnSHbRVq1wiSDGEzOXG68UrRkTB1SWNgeqgZRcQmesGEG67wiXdDUF7M4j5ymGJh1OsbrXUPuY-PUWswnbkJZYiqUIvAO_N6BVXo7WgnpUCvOxjn71wN0kQF5sKMZKhU/s1600/7+reasons+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipCeDJY4snkAChnSHbRVq1wiSDGEzOXG68UrRkTB1SWNgeqgZRcQmesGEG67wiXdDUF7M4j5ymGJh1OsbrXUPuY-PUWswnbkJZYiqUIvAO_N6BVXo7WgnpUCvOxjn71wN0kQF5sKMZKhU/s1600/7+reasons+Pic.jpg" height="262" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">I have been exclusively pumping </span></span><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px;">breast milk</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"> for my son since
he was about 3 months old, and I exclusively breastfed him up till that time. For
some reason he went on a nursing strike at about 2 ½ months and never started
nursing again no matter what I tried. I had the help of a lactation specialist.
I read every blog and article I could find about breastfeeding and nursing
strikes. They all told me to just be patient and usually after a week or so my
baby should go back to nursing normally. Well I waited, and was as patient with
him as I could be, and after 3 weeks of every nursing session ending with both
of us in tears, I gave up! I realized that he was never going to nurse happily
again. We both were miserable, my husband and daughter were unhappy because my
son and I were always stressed and crying. It just wasn’t going to work
anymore. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I was really upset about it for a while. I had wanted it to
work out so bad. I felt like I had failed him and myself. I cried almost every
day for a week. I missed my time with him. That was the one thing that only I
could give him. When everything was going good, it was my favorite time of the
day. I did not want to give it up, but I also didn’t want to keep stressing
about it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> I was only able to
nurse my daughter for 6 weeks before I had to give it up with her. I was so
determined that I would make it work no matter what. But that apparently was
not the plan. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I thought long and hard about what I was going to do now. I
knew we couldn’t really afford formula, and I just didn’t want him to have it.
I didn’t have any problems producing milk at all! I had way more than he
needed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I had read an article about a woman who was pumping
exclusively for her baby. At that point she had been doing it well over a year!
So after reading up on it some more, I decided that I would give it a try. If
it became too much or too stressful, I told myself I would stop. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Then I became determined to make this work. I had failed at
being able to nurse my son for his first year, so I had to make this work! I
was a stay at home mom now, I didn’t need to deal with pumping at work. I could
totally do it, right?! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Well it definitely wasn’t easy, but I am proud to say that I
did it! On June 4<sup>th</sup> my baby boy will be turning a year old and I am
still pumping! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In the beginning, when I was pumping every 2 hours, I felt
like it was taking over my life. I had to plan everything around when I could
pump. Then I would remind myself that I would have to do the same even if I was
still nursing, so what’s the big deal! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I couldn’t think about how much longer I had to this for or I
would get so discouraged. I took it day by day, and learned new tricks as I
went. I am very proud of myself for sticking with it and not giving up! But I
can honestly say I won’t miss it at all!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I hate pumping. There is really nothing to like about it. The
only good thing is that my son is getting my milk, that is made for him,
instead of formula and it has saved us a ton of money! But that is about it.
And as the last pumping day nears, I can’t help thinking about all of the
things I will get to do and enjoy again without the burden of pumping numerous
times a day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I get to
wear a normal bra. </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The word hate does not accurately describe how I feel
about nursing bras! They are so expensive and yet they are still so uncomfortable
and as unflattering as a cheap sports bra. And you even have to wear a “sleep
bra” at night! The first thing I am going to do is go buy me a couple new,
comfortable bras and throw away my nursing bra. Because if for some reason I
decide I want to have another child in a few years, I can guarantee I won’t be
able to fit into that one again!</span></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">No more
leaking. </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I can’t wait until I no longer have to wear those dumb
nursing pads. No more waking up in the morning with a big wet circle on my
shirt because I forgot to put the pads back in the terrible sleep bra.</span></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I won’t
have to plan my entire day around when I have to pump</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. My days
will be mine again! The only thing I’ll be scheduling around will be my son’s
nap times. If I want to be gone all day long, I can be.</span></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I can go to
bed earlier and sleep later</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. I always have to pump before I go to bed. And now
that I am only pumping three times a day, I have to pump for 35-45 minutes or
even longer sometimes. Now I’ll be able to go to bed an hour earlier, and sleep
in as long as the kids let me.</span></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I can take
any medication I want</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. No more having to worry about whether it’s bad for
my son. I can take all the decongestants, pain pills, and cough syrups I want.</span></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I’ll have
more time to exercise</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. Unfortunately, for me, it has not been easy losing
weight. The milk making has not been enough for me to keep the weight off. But
all of my free time has been dedicated to pumping. Now I won’t have an excuse
not to exercise.</span></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I’ll never
have to look at my pump stuff again! </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I think the day I can put all of my
pumping stuff away and not have to look at it every day will be cause for a
celebration!</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">If you’re a pumping momma and need some tips, you can read my
post about how to make pumping work for you here. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-1639512609041010502014-04-16T21:29:00.000-07:002014-04-24T15:06:46.586-07:00The Bucket List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlREJeaupQKLihl-QGGczKj6jDzYcCGoyBRwajLUF7hUgtDfrgUgFLG0SweV5G6R8SCgDMBSmFSgV9cEyvCIIkuBA9bmvm6HwpeLQ9OCyZiqsSed9dvs5EdmHNoopZ9Ro85An7RUcFCYE/s1600/Bucket+list+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlREJeaupQKLihl-QGGczKj6jDzYcCGoyBRwajLUF7hUgtDfrgUgFLG0SweV5G6R8SCgDMBSmFSgV9cEyvCIIkuBA9bmvm6HwpeLQ9OCyZiqsSed9dvs5EdmHNoopZ9Ro85An7RUcFCYE/s1600/Bucket+list+collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Everyone has one. Even
if you've never actually written it down, you most likely have a list of things
you want to try or do and places you would like to visit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">So, today I have finally
decided to put mine down on paper and hopefully one day be able to cross them
off! I am going to share with you all my top 5 on my bucket list.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Visit Ireland-</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <span style="font-weight: normal;">I
have always been fascinated with the beautiful, mystical castles in Ireland.
Ever since I found out that most of my name comes from the Irish, I have wanted
to take a trip there. The beautiful colors, and waters. It seems it would be
such a magical place to visit. </span><br /><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJminv16MqHKdr6DZsmk4btUmDPslfwJIIR-RiGuVMUcpXZFWOfP1VdoeTch9l3Ey4M3dM0NfLJXaqYQP_yGH5wOfopP7IsGRv8K-UvhesL2aBZ-uItX69pNd3M9Ld1_vJ4L2QIBC-P0/s1600/Ireland+castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJminv16MqHKdr6DZsmk4btUmDPslfwJIIR-RiGuVMUcpXZFWOfP1VdoeTch9l3Ey4M3dM0NfLJXaqYQP_yGH5wOfopP7IsGRv8K-UvhesL2aBZ-uItX69pNd3M9Ld1_vJ4L2QIBC-P0/s1600/Ireland+castle.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from google images</td></tr>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Alaskan Cruise-</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> I have always wanted to go on a cruise and I want to visit
Alaska, so why not kill two birds with one stone! I love the beauty of Alaska.
It’s, for the most part, untouched by humans. And it is also pretty isolated,
which suits me well since I’m not a big fan of crowds. And I mostly just want
to go on a cruise to say that I have!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiykZRUR4mzHA7Z_JM_8r1-uH-Hf6uJa5bkgsbx96wpIq-pZ6rE6nCl91jXBAAOjDJIRNCBisY8zt7-9YQ3_efFtB9GdLmhnu2DD9iRKRQd5IDHk3JlJwjmtQi_ajabDT6DQr1vfBG0SRU/s1600/Alaska.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiykZRUR4mzHA7Z_JM_8r1-uH-Hf6uJa5bkgsbx96wpIq-pZ6rE6nCl91jXBAAOjDJIRNCBisY8zt7-9YQ3_efFtB9GdLmhnu2DD9iRKRQd5IDHk3JlJwjmtQi_ajabDT6DQr1vfBG0SRU/s1600/Alaska.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo-google images</td></tr>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Northern Lights-</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Okay, really, who doesn’t want to see the Northern Lights?
This has been my dream since I first heard about it when I was a kid. I don’t
think I need to explain much why this is on my top 5!</span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Whale Migration- </b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Seeing the Humpback Whale Migration in Hawaii
would be amazing. There is nothing more awe-inspiring than watching nature at its
finest. It would be so awesome to be able to witness that first hand!</span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Yellowstone- </b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">In case you couldn’t
tell, I love nature! Being able to see the Earth like this and see the animals in
their real habitat would be so great! I know that many people have visited
Yellowstone many times, but this would be a huge deal if my family could go
here!</span></div>
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Well, there you have it! My top 5 on my bucket list. This is
the first time I have ever put it in writing and it has definitely made me want
to make sure that someday I can say I have seen all of them! <o:p></o:p></div>
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What are some of the things on your bucket lists? Anyone
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I would love to hear everyone else’s lists, and maybe any
you have been able to cross off! <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-24067675814110743452014-04-01T18:58:00.000-07:002014-04-24T15:07:16.828-07:00Family Craft Day-DIY Sharpie MugsOur family has started a new tradition where all of the women get together and do something crafty once a month. We each take turns hosting and coming up with a craft to do. It has been a lot of fun and we have done many different crafts!<br />
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Well March was my month to host a craft, and after searching for something cheap and easy to do, my friend and fellow blogger Daniela at <a href="http://iputabirdonit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Put a Bird On It</span></a> posted about an awesome DIY sharpie mug! I loved this idea and thought it would be perfect for my craft day! It's super cheap and so easy even my four year old could do it!!!</div>
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I told everyone to bring a mug and I provided some sharpies in many colors. I also made sure to have some paper available for everyone to practice what they wanted to draw first. </div>
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It was super easy and everyone had a lot of fun personalizing their own mugs. It only cost me about $10 for two packs of sharpies and some alcohol wipes. (The alcohol wipes worked great for cleaning before hand since there were quite a few of us, and for erasing mistakes or smudges!) </div>
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After everyone drew on their mugs we put them all together and took some pictures. Then I told them all the instructions for baking their mugs at home. (It would have taken a little too long for them to stay and do it at my house.)</div>
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I love the way they all turned out! We have some very talented women in our family! I am so glad that I found this craft idea at Put a Bird On It!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23S7N3nVrdyLd7Ekq2g5B5L_-RuM6WPlxwRWefyh6zhca3aL7hn3rDYR35JxnpD6Q8FYABcRSN0jkYLu2Cs4wq3P-J4q8dtwIstaf9z5UDmgdWyoe1VJT5q5OgjHWAmLDabN9WqWeuFQ/s1600/DIY+mugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23S7N3nVrdyLd7Ekq2g5B5L_-RuM6WPlxwRWefyh6zhca3aL7hn3rDYR35JxnpD6Q8FYABcRSN0jkYLu2Cs4wq3P-J4q8dtwIstaf9z5UDmgdWyoe1VJT5q5OgjHWAmLDabN9WqWeuFQ/s1600/DIY+mugs.jpg" height="489" width="640" /></a></div>
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My daughter had a lot of fun doing this craft! I bet you can't pick out which one belongs to her!</div>
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For the full tutorial on how to make your own sharpie mug visit Daniela's post <a href="http://iputabirdonit.blogspot.com/2014/01/west-elm-inspired-sharpie-mugs.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #4c1130;">here</span></a>!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-89700644733687826532014-03-31T20:29:00.000-07:002014-03-31T20:29:54.578-07:00My Life Changing Decision!It's been a little while since I have posted anything. For the last month I have been focusing primarily and me and my family. We have had a lot going on and I felt that my mind and attention needed to be with them. Although the changes are not quite over yet!<div>
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The biggest, and probably the best, thing that has happened is that I got baptized in the LDS Church! This was a big step for me. I have always had a more agnostic view when it came to religion. My parents allowed me believe whatever I chose to. But I never really seriously thought about it much. </div>
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My family is a mix a religious and non-religious people but have been supportive in my decision. My husband's family are mostly all active members, but have never pressured me. Although they have offered to bring me along to church if I ever decided to go. </div>
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One day my Sister-in-law gave our info to the missionaries after having them over for dinner one evening. She told me she thought, after giving them our info, she would just leave it at that and whatever happens, happens. So, of course they showed up at our house one afternoon, and told us some members in the Magna ward sent them.So we immediately knew who that was! At this point my husband was considered "inactive" because it had been awhile since he had gone to church. They asked if they could set a time to come back and just talk and get to know us. Jake reluctantly agreed, since we were, at first, a little irritated. We knew now that they knew where we lived there would be no way they would leave us alone again! </div>
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We had a couple meetings and I agreed to continue and at least listen to their teachings. I figured the best way to really decide for myself was to learn and make an educated decision. So we continued meeting with the Sister Missionaries once a week, and every time they would bring over someone from the ward for us to meet. </div>
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I think it was after the third meeting that they came and told me they wanted to set a goal date to work towards me getting baptized. I was kind of shocked that they were talking about me getting baptized already! I had only been to church once and I was a little uncertain. And the date they picked was only about 6 weeks away! But I agreed to set the day as a goal, and if I didn't feel okay with it when that day came I could always push it back or just say no. </div>
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However, as it came closer to that day, I had decided that I was okay with it. I had finally decided that this was what I needed. I finally felt like I belonged somewhere and that I had a purpose. I have always felt like I didn't belong and recently I had been feeling like I didn't know what I was supposed to be doing with my life. Like I was just kind of coasting along. But after going to church a few times and meeting the wonderful people in our ward, I finally felt that I was in the right place.</div>
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So I was baptized on Saturday, March 15th, 2014 by my wonderful and supportive Husband! Almost the whole ward showed up, as well as a few of my family and friends that I invited. It was a wonderful experience, and I am so happy that I was able to share it with my Husband. </div>
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We have been to church every Sunday since, and I can definitely tell the difference in my family. I feel that we are all happier and my Husband and I have become closer. I am so thankful for all of the support and encouragement I have received from all of my family and friends. And I am so thankful for all of my new friends and my ward family! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-83163502008085202712014-02-28T12:21:00.000-08:002014-02-28T12:21:04.799-08:00Peanut Butter Lover's Day<div class="MsoNormal">
Peanut Butter Lovers Day is Saturday, March 1<sup>st</sup>!<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is definitely a day to celebrate! I love peanut butter!
Reese’s peanut butter cups are my absolute favorite candy! <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I’m going to share my favorite ways to eat peanut butter.
First is my favorite dessert centered around the delicious staple.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Trifle<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think the name says it all. This is the most delectable
dessert dish I have ever made. It combines peanut butter, brownies, whipped
cream and pudding. You really can’t get any better than that. But, boy is it
rich. Just a small serving and you feel like you've eaten a whole carton of ice
cream or something. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The first time I made this for a family function everyone
went crazy for it! I made it for our July 4<sup>th</sup> party and have been
asked to make it every year since. There is rarely anything left by the end of
the night. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am going to share with you all, this delicious, heavenly
recipe! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJw9jCN0bSFvmWoiABkwVNGmE1gmSoo74o_aj0vFCVffEsNw4N5bu98YFOUuw3zX-M65GBscpQPR67XpRiA_qBBVWp46fgoK6Nq1GFXbtTedC2-1gvOc0R3QAIGW1jrR4Cccye8gHqY4/s1600/pbbtrifle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJw9jCN0bSFvmWoiABkwVNGmE1gmSoo74o_aj0vFCVffEsNw4N5bu98YFOUuw3zX-M65GBscpQPR67XpRiA_qBBVWp46fgoK6Nq1GFXbtTedC2-1gvOc0R3QAIGW1jrR4Cccye8gHqY4/s1600/pbbtrifle.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Trifle</div>
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1 Fudge Brownie mix (13x9 pan size)<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 pkg. (10 oz.) Peanut Butter Chips<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 pkgs (13 oz. each) Miniature peanut butter cups</div>
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4 cups cold 2% milk<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 pkgs (5.1 oz. each) instant vanilla pudding<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 cup creamy peanut butter<o:p></o:p></div>
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4 tsp vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></div>
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3 cartons (8 oz. each) frozen whipped topping, thawed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare brownie batter according to
package directions; stir in peanut butter chips. Bake in greased 13x9 baking
pan 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near center comes out with
moist crumbs (do not over bake). Cool on wire rack; cut into ¾ inch pieces. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut peanut butter cups in half; set aside 1/3 cup for
garnish. In a large bowl, whisk milk and pudding mixes for 2 minutes (mixture will be
thick). Add peanut butter and vanilla, mix well. Fold in 1-1/2 cartons of
whipped topping. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Place 1/3 of brownies on bottom of a 5qt glass trifle dish,
top with 1/3 remaining peanut butter cups. Spoon 1/3 pudding mixture over the
top. Repeat layers twice. Cover with remaining whipped topping and; garnish
with reserved peanut butter cups. Refrigerate until chilled.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Next up are my top 5 snack ideas using Peanut Butter.<o:p></o:p></div>
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*Warning:
Many of these would not be considered “healthy” snacks, but more of a treat to be
eaten occasionally!<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 Peanut
butter/chocolate chip dip: Just take a spoonful (or two) of peanut butter and
put it in a bowl with a handful of chocolate chips. Then heat in the microwave
until the peanut butter is melted but the chips are still semi solid (30-40
sec.). This can be eaten with just about anything, Apples (I like the green
apples for a sweet and sour effect), Graham Crackers, Strawberries, etc. My
daughter loves it when she sees me mixing this up. <o:p></o:p></div>
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2 Celery
and Peanut Butter. This is an all-time favorite. My daughter and husband love
these. Super easy to just spread some peanut butter on the celery and snack
away. Great for a kids after school snack or I like to serve them when I make
chicken salad sandwiches since I usually have some celery left over.<o:p></o:p></div>
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3 Peanut
Butter and Honey sandwiches. My husband made fun of me the first time I made
these. He had never heard of anyone making a sandwich out of just those two
ingredients. But guess what? Now he is hooked! And since my daughter doesn’t
like any jelly or jam, she requests this instead of PB&J. Peanut butter and
honey make an awesome combination. You could even throw in bananas to make it a
bit healthier! <o:p></o:p></div>
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4 Peanut
butter on waffles/pancakes! Peanut butter tastes so good on pancakes and
waffles. Especially if you make chocolate chip pancakes! This is our favorite
breakfast!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
5 Just a
plain old spoonful of peanut butter! Who seriously has not done this? I have
eaten just plain peanut butter off a spoon since I was a kid, and my daughter
loves it, too. She often asks for a spoonful of peanut butter to snack on. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well those are my favorite peanut butter recipes and snacks.
They may not all be super healthy, but it’s nice to have a treat every once in
a while. We are definitely going to have at least one of these to celebrate
this awesome day!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What are your favorite recipes/snacks using peanut butter,
healthy or indulgent?<o:p></o:p><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-19068513615272597792014-02-12T21:09:00.003-08:002014-02-16T15:29:30.282-08:00 5 Goals UpdateSo it has been one month since I posted about my <span style="font-size: large;">“5 Goals to
a Happier Life in 2014”</span>, and I wanted to give an update on my progress with
those.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some things I have done pretty well on and others, not so
much. But it’s only been one month and I think any progress is good!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I posted that I wanted to lose 30lbs by the end of June
and I had set a goal to lose about 5 pounds a month. Well I <span style="font-size: large;">FAILED</span>! In January
I didn’t lose a single pound. I was lazy and didn’t even really try. So to give
myself a little more motivation I decided to try a reward and penalty. For
every month that I meet my goal, I get to reward myself with a new outfit. And
every time I don’t reach my goal I then have to divide my remaining weight for
the month to the remaining months. So since I didn’t lose any weight last
month, I now have to lose either 10 pounds this month or more realistically 6
pounds a month for the next 5 months. I have also changed my mindset of why I
want to lose weight. I’m not just doing this for me. I’m also doing this for my
wonderful husband, because he deserves to have a beautiful, healthy, happy and
confident wife. Not that he doesn’t tell me I’m still beautiful, but I
definitely don’t feel it! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, I have done much better when comes to my goal of paying
our bills on time and sticking to a budget. I have gotten on a schedule of
paying the next month’s bills ahead of time to avoid them being late. Since we
literally live payday to payday (<span style="font-size: large;">more like payday to 5 days before payday!</span>) it
has been difficult to get all of our bills paid on time. But anytime we have
some extra money I make sure to pay some bills ahead of time. That way we
aren’t so short on money at other times.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had set a goal to work on my relationship with my husband,
and this has definitely not been easy! Mainly due to the fact that we live on
completely opposite schedules. You see, he works the <span style="font-size: large;">graveyard</span> shift. So he
goes in to work @ 9 pm and doesn’t usually get home until after 8 am and he works
5-6 days a week. So that leaves a 1-2 days a week where we get to be together
after the kids go to bed. And usually by that time we are both so tired we
don’t have to energy to even stay up and watch a movie! We ended up not having
our monthly date night in January, but we are going to try to have at least two
this month. We had a <span style="font-size: large;">spontaneous date</span> last Saturday. We were deciding what to
have for dinner and decided to ask my MIL to babysit for a couple hours. We
went to <span style="font-size: large;">Costa Vida</span> for the first time and <span style="font-size: large;">loved it</span>!! It was so nice to have
some adult alone time!! Hopefully we will be able to go on another date next
payday. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For my cleaning goal, I started a weekly schedule. I’m not
super great at following it every day, but it has definitely helped me keep the
cleaning manageable. I have one main cleaning chore that I do each day, then I
make sure to do the dishes and de-clutter the front room every night. I have
gotten better at making the <span style="font-size: large;">Princess</span> pick up her toys every night to help. I
also made sure to leave the weekends free of specific chores and one day during
the week to use as a sort of “make-up” day so that if for some reason I didn’t
get one or more of the chores done I have time to get them done before the
weekend. But I can also use that day as a “day off” if I need it, too. It has
also helped with my motivation that the missionaries come over every Saturday.
So I have to at least clean on Saturday if not any other day.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been able to spend more one on one time with my
daughter. We have played her games like, Hungry Hippos, Candy Land, and Cupcake
Party. As well as computer games on <a href="http://pbskids.org/"><span style="font-size: large;">pbskids.org</span></a>. I have some folder games that she
loves to play and we started going to the library. The games have turned into a
lesson for both of us about <span style="font-size: large;">patience</span>. She has very little of it if she has any
difficulty at all, and it drives me insane when she just gives up the first
time she gets something wrong. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So all in all, I think I have done pretty well at keeping up
with my goals. There is still plenty of room for improvement and I plan to
continue working hard on it! I think my main focus for February is going to
have to be my weight loss. I really don’t want to have to add on more pounds to
the next few months again!!! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will continue to give monthly updates about my progress.
Hopefully this will help keep me motivated so I can have something good to
report!!! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Did you make any goals for yourself or even your family?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
How did your first month go?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-60759025602474844732014-02-04T11:54:00.001-08:002014-02-16T15:28:47.768-08:00Ice Castles-Midway, Utah<div class="MsoNormal">
Last Saturday our family took a trip up to Midway to see the
Ice Castles! We all bundled up in our hats, scarves and gloves, and coats, then
headed out. I brought a snow suit for our baby and he stayed nice and warm! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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I cannot believe the amount of work it must have taken to
make that! It was really pretty! They had lights placed in some of the ice
structures to make it glow, and they had carved out little mazes and tunnels. I
guess there was one tunnel that ended in a slide, but we didn't go in it
because the line was pretty long. But my daughter found a little mini tunnel
for the kids and she had fun sliding through it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we arrived my daughter went to see the Princesses that
we there. I guess they were singing a song from “Frozen”. And inside the Castle
they had made “Olaf” the snowman. The slot canyons were pretty fun to walk
through. But it was pretty crowded so it tended to get a little jammed up.
There was also a piano in the middle that was covered in ice and looked really
pretty. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My daughter had a lot of fun and my son was even intrigued
by it all. He didn't fuss at all the whole time we were there. He just kept
looking all around while being cuddled into Daddy’s chest. Unfortunately
strollers don’t really fit due to the small spaces and the mushy and slippery
ground, so we had to just carry him. I don’t think he minded and my husband
definitely didn't mind. He said he was kept pretty warm by holding him! <o:p></o:p></div>
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When we left, the Princesses were gone but there were fire
dancers out front. The parking was not super great. You had to just find a spot
on the street on one of the neighborhood streets around it. So be prepared for
a little bit of a walk to and from it! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All in all it was a really fun family outing and could be
fun to start doing as maybe a yearly tradition. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here are some of the pictures I took…..</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFn_Dhd6X67O-MoE4Gl8UReTNT9ZAY4rsuPa3XzHGVL0ZKutbkTGNXeZXmXO5z_XuBZsUQoDnAJd1pRr8x7SVAmFGM1HiwmqO_lqlNS_a5isRvi9Kb_jW6tqV4BreANmOHCqCg5ytdYIc/s1600/IMG_2703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFn_Dhd6X67O-MoE4Gl8UReTNT9ZAY4rsuPa3XzHGVL0ZKutbkTGNXeZXmXO5z_XuBZsUQoDnAJd1pRr8x7SVAmFGM1HiwmqO_lqlNS_a5isRvi9Kb_jW6tqV4BreANmOHCqCg5ytdYIc/s1600/IMG_2703.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZwmwvs1SZu6_ecOtXEvGKHL8qiXien8Ne7S_87MzVsNxA1jfmDbBscn-QS5-V3g5MY0Nh7-3lm-n91fB80-ZNn8XGK0yflaPHbx1zjyr1AKK_V9Q0Ar92SRw8byP4ZiP-G5lRs1I51k/s1600/IMG_2715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZwmwvs1SZu6_ecOtXEvGKHL8qiXien8Ne7S_87MzVsNxA1jfmDbBscn-QS5-V3g5MY0Nh7-3lm-n91fB80-ZNn8XGK0yflaPHbx1zjyr1AKK_V9Q0Ar92SRw8byP4ZiP-G5lRs1I51k/s1600/IMG_2715.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess with her Auntie Annie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTi1ZlSFlm52wuAvCxVRDYhMDaizIMSxN1xYmsMYuiHmRJ37KMAHa2O4P5jp71zfeWb4P-3kR_bylABf-RmX21gGIwOS2FcwCwZ-PWb2yp7S9e3Y-mHuwKk3uB_INAljMrBlZiFtR1YF4/s1600/IMG_2717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTi1ZlSFlm52wuAvCxVRDYhMDaizIMSxN1xYmsMYuiHmRJ37KMAHa2O4P5jp71zfeWb4P-3kR_bylABf-RmX21gGIwOS2FcwCwZ-PWb2yp7S9e3Y-mHuwKk3uB_INAljMrBlZiFtR1YF4/s1600/IMG_2717.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1sPsf_UvIhJFVLnsfx-mgY1vF1njaxP9xThUT_I4rWZMzy2MX-a4VQxJCgwVhAKWnIUynaTdsHpmSbFYafYmTZ3TDjar8k5qPU7RRismwrbVRxsqd4d3Z4kFwlmVopc5rw5K29ZHL5U/s1600/IMG_2718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1sPsf_UvIhJFVLnsfx-mgY1vF1njaxP9xThUT_I4rWZMzy2MX-a4VQxJCgwVhAKWnIUynaTdsHpmSbFYafYmTZ3TDjar8k5qPU7RRismwrbVRxsqd4d3Z4kFwlmVopc5rw5K29ZHL5U/s1600/IMG_2718.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slot Canyon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrL_E2dPa95_smOhNpXHOBG5G-wuBZEshXEc_snSbRvRGRlhrU4KOnT2rZP4QdmcKkVxkFs61GNmLp726laoRfFxIfTWJjgsIXnNXZ4MLj-Ej-VV6rJFAelNiW-Aw10pvVYCLddr9t6bw/s1600/IMG_2719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrL_E2dPa95_smOhNpXHOBG5G-wuBZEshXEc_snSbRvRGRlhrU4KOnT2rZP4QdmcKkVxkFs61GNmLp726laoRfFxIfTWJjgsIXnNXZ4MLj-Ej-VV6rJFAelNiW-Aw10pvVYCLddr9t6bw/s1600/IMG_2719.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slot Canyon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHF9JQohBmqkl909lIVEbt_UY4rw2VDYfW_l26mSUbD8zzYRZ0EOm-NkMxA_VqOTVPFwASwIodhEB8f7E_4flc5NvUKYzn9soDOSsEmQaKOPAgpGzt0r9nn-i13gpNQRQpthd0W1-wlcQ/s1600/IMG_2727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHF9JQohBmqkl909lIVEbt_UY4rw2VDYfW_l26mSUbD8zzYRZ0EOm-NkMxA_VqOTVPFwASwIodhEB8f7E_4flc5NvUKYzn9soDOSsEmQaKOPAgpGzt0r9nn-i13gpNQRQpthd0W1-wlcQ/s1600/IMG_2727.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She found a little cave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2OioAsylMcox7pGgWgbLXf15WLHDp_bfztcHkq8Yd5MX2OshvTL72MstvOd-LY-O1U6ORo_kYV5p84nj2bRjfjbLcAOyjnnKCVsqHHdDGmfg0-gRBneCoGSLpx-gQRC-sigkOVxOM2Y/s1600/IMG_2729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2OioAsylMcox7pGgWgbLXf15WLHDp_bfztcHkq8Yd5MX2OshvTL72MstvOd-LY-O1U6ORo_kYV5p84nj2bRjfjbLcAOyjnnKCVsqHHdDGmfg0-gRBneCoGSLpx-gQRC-sigkOVxOM2Y/s1600/IMG_2729.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma & Grandpa with the Princess</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLDoLSTENUQI58EC9sZqRbbw4WrSUDD7mKuKgSrAyUuWrETn0rt40dZDaYX1-e8UWs9TMSPWl9XWMsXeNCSMT-KF0lNi-r8qxxqZGHOjreC86cuYe3LXWjFRAZ-O2O-1W1kocwXDR5r8/s1600/IMG_2734+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLDoLSTENUQI58EC9sZqRbbw4WrSUDD7mKuKgSrAyUuWrETn0rt40dZDaYX1-e8UWs9TMSPWl9XWMsXeNCSMT-KF0lNi-r8qxxqZGHOjreC86cuYe3LXWjFRAZ-O2O-1W1kocwXDR5r8/s1600/IMG_2734+(2).JPG" height="298" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the piano</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjgUk9vIWeT9IRUlqQD3vPiBaft7XxRFnP75dRhDHfe5czSvnCPhqDCwz0_h5QluvcOHOSZ8QVRIehepRllqn3iinUd9NY1_7IkskrbbBMawwXWnLysN2KDXYOJlchjzndn4PYFZrT5c/s1600/IMG_2740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjgUk9vIWeT9IRUlqQD3vPiBaft7XxRFnP75dRhDHfe5czSvnCPhqDCwz0_h5QluvcOHOSZ8QVRIehepRllqn3iinUd9NY1_7IkskrbbBMawwXWnLysN2KDXYOJlchjzndn4PYFZrT5c/s1600/IMG_2740.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a one of my favorite pics</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtD6bDV7ZmRjAIEdXroB43Njkx1eFnMsg8i-gxyjQB3MwYrZ9Xnj-zV3gupGddt5oGqmybo4QpGlUhwm_BruGf3UnkdVRLnGX-LXqXYBCPMv0QMWZ0hOPJChBousPnzInZ53diPtR0y5Y/s1600/IMG_2741+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtD6bDV7ZmRjAIEdXroB43Njkx1eFnMsg8i-gxyjQB3MwYrZ9Xnj-zV3gupGddt5oGqmybo4QpGlUhwm_BruGf3UnkdVRLnGX-LXqXYBCPMv0QMWZ0hOPJChBousPnzInZ53diPtR0y5Y/s1600/IMG_2741+(2).JPG" height="286" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kiddie tunnel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnZIn-s5TWb3vQOUi_jH2fOs-NeFYJGrJfwapq3gY9J3offFLKiygj-EhR1ww_JKXEjALCh-thLwMxpJpcydZC6Pz_IINvLguwiM7j1_t1ikka5YhGdMrVjW0V0dxM-HxPnxnY-X8jCQ/s1600/IMG_2749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnZIn-s5TWb3vQOUi_jH2fOs-NeFYJGrJfwapq3gY9J3offFLKiygj-EhR1ww_JKXEjALCh-thLwMxpJpcydZC6Pz_IINvLguwiM7j1_t1ikka5YhGdMrVjW0V0dxM-HxPnxnY-X8jCQ/s1600/IMG_2749.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma's phone flash was super bright!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaW103qeF73CW9gWWcT5XGCSPKTTNbJX6d4l9I6HS1T6mgxOY0fz1QftjnZfe1Nc5eIk_Ho3zcEtxz8sQgnpsgSgTwbNDJjWO8pHj7IFkpDuhMMhqlNGJGQhVtgfUYYvkvQZWLcWiMAAk/s1600/IMG_2751+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaW103qeF73CW9gWWcT5XGCSPKTTNbJX6d4l9I6HS1T6mgxOY0fz1QftjnZfe1Nc5eIk_Ho3zcEtxz8sQgnpsgSgTwbNDJjWO8pHj7IFkpDuhMMhqlNGJGQhVtgfUYYvkvQZWLcWiMAAk/s1600/IMG_2751+(2).JPG" height="320" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fire Dancers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-42256328906378626732014-01-24T12:57:00.002-08:002014-02-16T15:30:01.101-08:00We are all Moms- Can't we all just get along<div class="MsoNormal">
I have had to opportunity to experience the best (and the
worst) of both worlds when it comes to working or staying home with children. With my first child I had to work. At first just
part-time then I went to full-time later on. Then with my second child, I
couldn’t afford to work. I know that sounds silly, but when childcare for two
children costs as much as I was bringing home, it didn’t make sense for me to
work just to pay for childcare. So here I am now as a stay-at-home mom. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But until you have experienced firsthand both worlds, you
cannot possibly and reasonably understand the challenges that they each bring. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you heard about the “Mommy Wars”? Well if not, it’s
basically that other Moms have been outwardly judgmental towards others moms
because they chose to do things differently. Working moms judge stay-at-home
moms and vice versa. Both do it without fully understanding what the other life
is like. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have had enough of this crap. So I am taking a stand and I
am going to explain some of the Pros and Cons of each lifestyle. My goal is to
hopefully enlighten someone about moms who have made the decision to either
stay home with their kids or return to work. As I said, I have done both. I
have experienced them both firsthand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE WORKING MOM</span></span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<h4>
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">PROS:</span></span></b></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You get
more adult social interaction without having to join a group or go out
searching for friends. You probably have at least one person at work that you
can talk to and gossip with. Believe it or not, it’s good for your health! And
it doesn’t take much effort. You both are already there and you already have
something in common, your work. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You
will hopefully have a little more income to work with. Having two incomes can
make things a lot easier, even if it’s just a little bit. It makes it easier to
stretch your money until the next payday. Especially if you get paid on
alternating weeks as your husband. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your
child/children will learn important social lessons if they go to daycare or
even family member’s house. Children need to interact with people other than
their parents and siblings. They need to learn how to take directions from
other adults to prepare them for school. And they need to learn how to deal
with kids as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your
life may be a little more organized. You make not always think it is. But just
having an actual routine and schedule you have to follow helps so much. It
makes you prioritize your time so that you can make sure that everything gets
done. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h4>
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">CONS:</span></span></b></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You
will have to find someone you trust to take care of your child while you are at
work. And not only to they have to watch your child, but also feed them, and
hopefully teach them things, too. That can be so hard to do. Especially with
all of the stories you hear of babysitters or even family members causing harm
to the children. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Childcare
can be so expensive, too. If you don’t have parents or a family member willing
to do it for free or cheap, you could be spending a few hundred dollars a month
on childcare. For my two kids to go to daycare full-time it was going to cost
me over $900/month! And that wasn’t even the high end fancy daycare. That was a
day care that many lower income families used. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Children
will also learn things from daycare and other kids that you may not want them
to know. They will learn words and behaviors that force you to have a “lesson”
with your child about why it’s not ok to say that or act that way. They also
get sick ALL THE TIME! People don’t want to stay home with their kids when they
are sick, so then your kid gets sick. And if you’re like me, you actually take
the time off and stay home with them. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You may
feel like you’re always in a hurry and that you don’t have time for anything.
You may feel like you never get to rest. You go to work and then you may have
to come home and cook and clean and then get everyone fed and in bed. Sometimes
you want to pull your hair or runaway for a couple days. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h3>
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE STAY-AT-HOME MOM</span></span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<h4>
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">PROS:</span></span></b></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You
don’t have to go to work and deal with a boss, co-workers and all of the drama
and crap that comes with having a job. You don’t have to get up at the crack of
dawn (hopefully) and get ready. You don’t have to deal with all of the idiots
of the world if you don’t want to leave your house! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You get
to spend every day with your kids. You get to watch first hand when they learn
something new or reach a new milestone. You can also be able to be the one to
teach your child like a daycare would. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You
learn to be creative with kids, money, and everyday life. You learn how to make
crafts with the random items you have around your house. You figure out ways to
make household items last longer and not waste anything or you may learn how to
make some things yourself. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You get
to wear whatever you want! No lame uniforms or dress codes to follow. Hello,
yoga pants! And if you’re having a “blah” day or you’re not feeling well, you
can stay in your pajamas all day if you want to. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h4>
<b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">CONS:</span></span></b></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You
don’t have someone telling you what needs to be done and when, so it is very
easy to procrastinate and not get anything done. You have to be a
self-motivator if you want anything to get done. Otherwise you will end up on
the couch all day and you and your kids won’t get dressed until 4 PM or not at
all. You have to be the one create a schedule and force yourself to stick to
it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You
don’t get any time off unless you make time for yourself. There are no breaks
or lunches and your shift literally never ends. You don’t get to leave and just
forget about work until the next day. You are always there and you always have
to take care of the kids. So if you don’t schedule out time for yourself away
from home and the kids you will go insane! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">You may feel very disconnected from
the world. Unless you make an effort to get out and connect with other people,
you can become very lonely. That is why you hear about and see all of those
mommy groups. You won’t get much time away from family so it is important to
find other moms with similar interests and ones in a similar life stage.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Because you are a stay-at-home mom,
everything related to the kids and the house becomes your job. All cleaning is
your responsibility. You are in charge of feeding, dressing, bathing and
getting the kids to bed. Making sure they have enough mental stimulation other
than the T.V. all day long. And believe it or not it is actually quite
difficult to keep a house clean when you and the kids are home all day every
day. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These are just a few things about each life style. I could
go on and on about how each one is just as good but also just as hard as the
other. But the point is, that no matter how you do it, being a MOM is HARD
WORK, PERIOD!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As moms, it is our responsibility to do whatever works for
our own families. What works for my family will not be the same as another
family, and I am OK with that. It’s never alright to judge another mother for
how she has to support her family. Whether that means going to work and putting
her kids in daycare or staying home with them. You never know if it was really
a personal choice or one forced on them by circumstances. As I said earlier, I
did not have a choice with either of my kids.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope this helps at least one woman realize that we all
work hard for our families and that we need to support each other instead of
demean and criticize each other. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE AVERAGE MOM<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-29579310205658529912014-01-16T16:51:00.000-08:002014-02-16T15:30:33.293-08:00How to Successfully Exclusively Pump for Your Baby<div class="MsoNormal">
It is definitely true that “breast is best”, but it’s not
always the easiest. In fact, it is rarely ever easy. But if Mom and Baby are
able to succeed, the benefits make it all worthwhile. Baby gets milk made just
for him. It’s always warm and ready to go! Mom and Baby get to experience a
bond that only they can share. And Mom gets the benefits of having her uterus
shrink faster, burn more calories (so an excuse to eat a little more) and no
monthly visits from Mother Nature until you stop, if you’re lucky!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, not all women and babies are able to nurse. Whether
Mom is unable to make any milk, or baby cannot or will not latch on properly,
sometimes it just won’t work.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And that is alright.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You have not failed!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trust me, I know. I have experienced it firsthand myself. I
had to start my first baby on formula after 6 weeks. I couldn't keep up with
the demand after going back to work. But I promised myself I would do
everything I could to make it work with the second baby. Formula was a last
resort for us after going from living off of two full-time incomes to just one
income. We simply couldn't afford for it not to work. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unfortunately our Big Boy decided he was not going to go
along with our plans. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After almost three months of constant struggling with latching,
then a nursing strike that kept getting worse and lasted about 2 weeks, I gave
up. The stress was making me dread nursing and I knew at that point is was not
good for either of us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, we still could not afford to put him on formula.
So, after thinking about it, and I mean really thinking about it, I decided to
Exclusively Pump (EP) for my baby.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, I did not come to this decision lightly. I knew it
wasn't going to be easy, either. And I know that if I had been working, I most
certainly would not have been able to do it. I was already pumping more than he
was nursing so the transition wasn't super difficult. But, I knew there was a
lot I still needed to know. So I started searching for tips online and came
across this website that had everything you would need to know about every
problem you could possibly face while either breastfeeding or pumping. This
website became like my bible in the first couple months. That website was<i> <a href="http://www.kellymom.com/"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>Kellymom.com</b></span></a></i>. Seriously, if you are
nursing or are planning to nurse, take a look at this website!!! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So thanks to
some tips and tricks I learned from there I am happy to say that I am still
EPing for my Big Boy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will share some of my tips and how I have made it work for
me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First off are the supplies you will need. Now this goes for
Moms who are pumping and nursing or just pumping. Either way you will need
these things!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[endif]--><b> Double
Electric Breast Pump</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
This one needs to be a good high quality
and reliable. If you are EPing or even going to be pumping every day at work,
you’ll need a pump that can not only handle that much use, but also do it
efficiently. They can be a bit pricey, but compared to formula, it will pay
itself off within just a month or two. I think a lot of insurance plans will
pay for you to get one, too. Some may require a RX, but if you just call and
ask, you could save money on that as well!!! I lucked out and received this Medela one from a family member<o:p></o:p><br />
<img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61FEoHnQdvL._SL1500_.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Storage
Bottles and Bags</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
You will obviously need something to
store the milk in, right? I use the Medela bottles to pump in to and I store it
in the fridge until I’m ready to either use or freeze. Then when I want to
freeze the milk I just dump it in a Lansinoh storage bag, write the ounces and
date, and lay it flat in the freezer. Once frozen I put them in a large gallon
freezer bag and write the date range of milk and put it in the basement
freezer. I used to use the Medela bags but they just don’t hold enough. They
were only marked for 5 oz but I have had issues with them leaking after I
thawed them. The Lansinoh ones are bigger and cheaper! And I have never had one
leak on me yet. I have bought both of them on Amazon and with my prime membership I get a discount and free two-day shipping!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416gxaEUnDL.jpg" height="200" width="200" /> <img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61fLGJQHfwL._SL1500_.jpg" height="188" width="200" /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b>Nursing
Cover</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
You will still need this if plan to leave
the house at all, or even have guests over. I usually try to time my pumping
times around my outings but sometimes we are out all day and that is not
possible. So a nursing cover makes it easy for you to pump outside of your home
without showing anything.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-size: 7pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Hands-Free
Pumping Bra</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
I started out my pumping adventure without
one of these and it was a pain to hold both bottles. Especially when you need
to massage the milk down occasionally. I found this one for a great price on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Simple-Wishes-Hands-Free-Breastpump-XS-L/dp/B00295MQLU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389920121&sr=8-1&keywords=simple+wishes+hands-free+breastpump+bra"><b><i><span style="color: #4c1130;">Amazon</span></i></b></a>
and I cannot live without it now. It makes things so much easier. I can type my
blog posts while pumping, or sit on the floor and play with my kids. If you
happen to get a more portable pump you could even do some cleaning or something
as well. I have read some women cook dinner or even drive while pumping if you
have a portable pump. It could also be great at work. If you work at a desk,
just slip this baby on over your bra (I also recommend having a nursing bra for
convenience) in the bathroom then put your cover on and hook everything up. You
can pump while you work!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Manual
Hand Pump</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
This has been the best thing I have bought.
It’s a cheaper portable pump that works just as well as an electric pump. The
only drawback is you can only do one breast at a time. I use this one a lot in
the car when someone else can drive. Also a great option to take to work if you
don’t want to haul your big loud electric one to work. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41DvvsuGAHL.jpg" height="200" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="136" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Extra
Pump Parts</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
If you can, purchase extra pump parts so
that you can always have one set clean. I have not had the extra money to do
this but I really wish I could. It would make things a lot easier, especially
if you will be pumping at work. To make it so that you don’t have to wash the
parts every time you use them, you can just rinse them with hot water after
every use and then store in a plastic baggy in the fridge. It will keep
whatever milk is still on the parts good until the next pump. I am able to wash
my parts two to three times a day, instead five or six. This is especially
helpful at work where you may not have the time to wash them. You could also
wipe them down with some pacifier wipes and then store in fridge if you cannot
rinse them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b> Lanolin
Nipple Ointment</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
Your nipples will be sore in the beginning
until you get used to that much pump use! But if you use it before and after
pumping, it will not be as bad. I now only have to use it maybe once a week if
that. I actually had to use it more when I was nursing! But this stuff is a
life saver in the beginning.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Here is a list of tips to make Pumping as easy as possible</i></b></span></h3>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b> Make sure
you are comfortable-</b> If you are not comfortable, it will affect how much
milk you will be able to get. Sitting straight with support for you back, feet
down in front of you is the best position. I have a spot on the couch that
works great for me. But a rocking chair would great too. Whatever works for you
that is near an outlet. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b> </b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b> Drink
plenty of water-</b> This makes such a difference. If you are not drinking
plenty of water, you will get dehydrated quickly. And, if you are dehydrated,
your baby will be too! If I ever notice that my milk production is going down,
I can usually just drink a couple extra cups of water and that will fix it most
of the time. Plus, I get so thirsty I have to drink water while I’m pumping!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[endif]--><b> Relax and
think about your baby-</b> To activate a let-down, I have found taking a deep
relaxing breath and picturing my baby helps. For some women, looking at a
picture or smelling something of their baby’s helps when they are not at home.
Do whatever works for you but relaxing is definitely the key. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b> Massage
and gently squeeze the milk out-</b> As you are pumping, gently massage your breasts
with your fingers in a downward circular motion (like when doing self breast
exams) all the way around the breast. Also gently squeezing for a couple
seconds at a time will help get all of the milk out of your breasts. It can
also help encourage more let-downs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[endif]--><b> Pump as
often as possible- </b>When first starting out and building up you milk supply
you will need to pump at least every two hours for 20-30 minutes. I know that
seems like a lot but it will set you up for long term success. Once you have
done that and have built up your production enough and you feel comfortable
with it you can go to every two to four hours. But try to aim for 6-8 pumping
sessions in a 24 hour period for the first couple of months. I am now on month
four of EPing and have been able to reduce it to every 6-8 hours for 30-40
minutes. The fewer times you pump the longer you need to pump for to get it all
out! But if you try it and notice a decrease in milk supply, go back to every 4
hours for a couple days and then slowly extend the amount of time until you are
comfortable with the amount you are getting. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]--><b>Don’t
expect to fill the bottle every time-</b> Even after I go 8 hours I won’t
always be able to fill both bottles. That is completely normal. I have been
lucky and have been over producing milk from the day it came in, but not
everyone is like that. I wasn’t with my first baby. So if you only get a couple
ounces, just know that is normal. Don’t give up. The best thing is to keep
going. The more you pump the more milk your body will make. Supply and demand.
It may take a couple days to notice an increase so just give it time. I always
try to freeze any extra milk so that if I ever start to lose some I can have a
backup until it comes back. That leads me to the next tip.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]--><b>Freeze
any extra milk- </b>If you have four or more full bottles and you know your
baby will not need all of them before your next pumping session, freeze some.
That way you can start building up a freezer supply just in case. My goal is to
have enough in the freezer by the time he gets to be 9 months that I can decrease
my pumping to about 2-4 times a day. So far I have about 5-6 gallon bags full. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[endif]--><b> Support
from family and friends- </b>If your family and friends don’t support you, it
will make things difficult. Especially your husband. You need him to be on the
same page when it comes to breastfeeding and pumping. Luckily that has not been
a problem for me. But I have heard of mothers or friends or even husbands
telling women that it’s disgusting or annoying. It doesn’t matter what they
think. You are Mom and it is your decision, so do not let anyone tell you
anything different. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you can see, deciding to Exclusively Pump is not easy. It
takes a lot of and dedication. But once you get the hang of it, it becomes like
second nature to you and your family. I have a four year old daughter, and she
knows that when mommy is pumping she can’t do certain things that need me to
help her. I also try to time my pumping so that it’s done while the baby is
asleep. He rolls all around now and is learning to crawl so I have a hard time
being connected to a machine with him awake. But do whatever works for you.
Some like to time it around feeding their baby so it is done at the same time. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you decide to try it, but find it is too stressful for
you and your family, then just do what you feel is best. If you think you and
your family would be happier using formula, go for it! It’s OK if that is what
will make everyone happy. And it is alright to feel sad about it at first. I
felt horrible when I decided I couldn't continue trying to nurse. I felt like a
total failure as a mother and like I had let everyone including myself down. I
allowed myself to feel sad about not being able to have that special bond with
him anymore. Then I started to remind myself that at least he is still getting
my milk and everyone is happier. Because it is so true when they say “If Mamma
isn't happy, nobody’s happy!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Good luck to you in your breastfeeding and pumping
adventures. If anyone has any other tips or encouragement please share! And if
you have any questions I would be happy to do my best to answer them if I can,
or lead you to a source that can help. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-69039569355994022722014-01-14T15:17:00.001-08:002014-02-16T15:31:09.082-08:008 Years Ago....Our Family's NightmareIt's been 8 years.<br />
<br />
8 years, but I can still remember that day like it was yesterday.<br />
<br />
The knock on the door that woke me up at 7 am on Saturday, January 14th 2006.<br />
Walking down the stairs while hearing crying and screaming.<br />
I saw my parents holding each other. That was where crying was coming from.<br />
I remember the two police officers standing by the door. They noticed me first before my parents did.<br />
I sat down on the steps, just watching. I think deep down I knew, but my mind refused to acknowledge it.<br />
Until they told me.<br />
Until my Dad told me, my brother was gone. He was never coming home again. He would never walk through that door with his contagious smile and a smart ass remark at the ready.<br />
<br />
I remember my Dad hugging me, and then I asked how it happened. A car accident, someone said.<br />
Then the next thing I remember is sitting on the stairs by myself, watching my parents sobbing. Hearing the words, "Not my baby, no not my baby" over and over again.<br />
<br />
Everything after that is now a blur. But one thing remains clear. The pain. I can still feel it when I allow myself to think about it.<br />
<br />
It was like someone punched a whole in my heart. I couldn't breath, I couldn't think. I just sat there with my arms around around myself, and cried.<br />
<br />
My parents made me go to school that following Monday. At the time I thought it was the cruelest thing they could have done, but now I know it was the best thing for me.<br />
It was so hard though. I had to go through my normal daily routine, except that he wasn't there to take me to school anymore, like he had been doing every day for the last few weeks.<br />
<br />
I only told a couple of my teachers what had happened. I tried my best to just be normal, but I know they knew something was wrong. I didn't learn a thing that week. If I wasn't staring off trying not to burst into tears, I had my head down on the desk either sleeping or crying quietly.<br />
My friends were so great. I would not have made it through that week without them. They kept me going, tried to make me smile and think about other things.<br />
<br />
I remember the funeral service was so crowded with people they were lined up all along the sides of the room standing. Even out into the hall.<br />
He had touched so many lives in his short 23 years here. Everyone loved him. He was the life of the party and the one who brought our family together.<br />
<br />
He is missed by so many and will always remain in our hearts and minds.<br />
<br />
R.I.P Brian Jack Jones<br />
<br />
I love you and miss you so much.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-429583258674462812013-12-30T12:26:00.002-08:002014-02-16T15:31:33.921-08:005 GOALS TO A HAPPIER LIFE IN 2014<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
In 2013, I had a couple pretty big life changing events
happen. In June we welcomed baby #2, our Big Boy. This addition resulted me not
being able to return to work due to the high cost of daycare. So I became a
stay at home mom!!</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was really excited to not have to go back to work and be
able to just stay home with my kids every day. I hated waking Princess up so
early to just drop her off at daycare for 10 hours every day. Most days she
just wanted to stay home, too. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I first thought about staying home with my kids, I
thought it would be so great. It is, really, but it’s also a lot more difficult
than I had ever thought. You don’t really think about it, but when you have to
go to work you develop a routine and a schedule to get everything done. But
when you aren’t required to be up at a certain time it’s difficult to get
dressed before noon. Then comes all of the chores and responsibilities. You
keep telling yourself it will get done, but unless you set a specific day and
time to get it done, it probably won’t get done.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So the key to being a stay at home mom and not just sitting
around in your PJ’s all day and eating junk is to have a routine and a
schedule. I failed at this. It’s been almost 7 months since our Big Boy was
born, and I have yet to develop a routine of any kind. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have let a lot of things go, like cleaning, bills,
spending one on one time with my husband and my daughter, and most of all
myself. So to fix this, I have come up with 5 goals that will help fix these
problems and hopefully make me and my family happier in the New Year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #45818e;"><i>Goal #1:</i> </span> <b>MONTHLY DATE NIGHTS WITH THE HUSBAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is so important
for couples with children to make time to be together without the children. It
becomes extremely difficult when I am always home with the kids. So making time
to have a date night at least once a month, completely away from the children,
is very important. It will not only strengthen our relationship but will also
help stabilize our family. Our kids will grow up seeing that we will always
make time to be together. I plan to set one day every month and make plans to
go out. It doesn’t always have to be extravagant or anything. Just having a
couple hours to go to dinner or something will be enough. Occasionally, if the
finances allow, we will do something extra special. I plan to use some ideas that I find here at <o:p></o:p><a href="http://www.thedatingdivas.com/date-night/all-dates/"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>The Dating Divas</b></span></a>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #76a5af;"><i>Goal #2:</i></span> <b>ONE ON ONE TIME WITH MY DAUGHTER<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is so important
to me because I don’t do this enough. Since the baby came, I have noticed my
daughter and I have not been getting along very well. Every day we fight. She
is constantly pushing the boundaries with me and I have lost my patience with
her. She is not nicknamed Princess for no reason. She definitely requires a lot
of patience. So, I am hoping that by spending at least 30 minutes of one on one
time with her every day it will help us to get along better. This time can be
spent dong anything other than watching T.V. We could play barbies, or work on
her letters, or paint. Just so that it’s about me and her. No little brother or
even Dad. I have a ton a ideas on my Pinterest board for <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/brandylhy/educational-activities/"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>Educational Activities</b></span></a>. As well as just some fun <span style="color: #4c1130;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/brandylhy/kids-activitiescrafts/"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>arts and crafts activities</b></span></a> </span>that will help keep these fun for her and easy for me!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #76a5af;"><i>Goal #3: </i></span> <b>LOSE 30 LBS BY JUNE 1<sup>ST</sup><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I had lost most of the weight I had gained with baby #2
by just a few weeks postpartum. I was pretty proud of myself for it, too. But
as the time has gone by, I have gained almost all of it back. I am so mad at
myself for letting this happen. Especially that since I am always home, using
the, I don’t have time excuse, doesn’t work. I have no excuse but pure
laziness. So I have decided that if I lose 5 lbs a month, starting in January,
I will be back down to a good healthy weight. Once I reach that goal I will set
another goal depending on how much I still need to lose. But, I think that 5lbs
a month is pretty doable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #76a5af;">Goal #4:</span> </i> <b>GET INTO A ROUTINE AND CLEANING SCHEDULE<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I never thought it would be so difficult to keep up on the
daily responsibilities when you’re home every day. But it is very difficult
when you don’t have a boss telling what needs to be done and when. It’s
especially difficult because there isn't really a start and end time for this
“job”. It’s a 24/7 job, so it is easy to just say I’ll do it later or tomorrow.
It’s a bad habit and I need to break it. So I am hoping that by setting up a
scheduled routine, I can break out of this vicious cycle I am in. I have tried
this many times already and I think the reason I keep giving up on it is
because I’m trying to do too much in the beginning. I think that if I start
small with just doing a few things every day, then slowly working up to a bit
more, I will be able to stick to it. My plan is to have some daily chores that
have to be done every day, like the dishes and picking up toys and clutter.
Once I get good at keeping up on the day to day stuff, I will start adding in
weekly chores. But I need to make sure to give myself a couple days to have a
free day. That way I can have a “day off” if I want or catch up if I missed a
chore on another day.<o:p></o:p> This is my favorite example of a cleaning schedule that I found on <span style="color: #4c1130;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/169096160982145199/"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>Pinterest</b></span></a>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #76a5af;">Goal #5:</span></i> <b>PAY EVERY BILLS ON TIME EVERY MONTH<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, for some, this may seem like no problem and you’re
probably thinking why this would be on my top 5 goals. Well anyone that knows
me, knows I am probably the most forgetful person ever! I have always struggled
with remembering to do things. I used to get into so much trouble as a kid
because of this problem. My parents never believed when I told them I had
forgotten. But I think now they know, it was pretty true. I think I can
incorporate this goal in with my routine. If I set times every week to take
care of the finances, I think I can get it under control. This is the <span style="color: #4c1130;"><a href="http://mommyedwards.com/muh-bill-book/"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>Bill Binder</b></span></a> </span>that I use to help keep my bills organized.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, there you have it. My five goals that I hope will make
my life easier, make my family and me happier, and maybe even teach my kids a
thing or two about responsibilities and motivation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What goals are you setting for yourselves for the New Year? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, no, I am not going to call them New Year’s Resolutions, because I plan to
continue these well after the year 2014. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-18038032187895986262013-12-24T23:36:00.003-08:002014-02-16T15:31:59.240-08:00A Year of New Christmas TraditionsThis year the Princess is old enough to start doing some fun Christmas traditions with. So, I of course hit up Pinterest!<br />
<br />
The first one we started was the "Elf on the Shelf" tradition. It was pretty successful, although I wasn't super creative with it. Luckily at only 4 years old just having the Elf sit in random spots around the house was enough for her. Her elf, Pebbles, will be leaving a "Goodbye letter" tonight and heading back to the North Pole with Santa Clause.<br />
<br />
The second tradition I started was leaving food for Santa's reindeer on the lawn. I found this idea at <a href="http://iputabirdonit.blogspot.com/2013/11/christmas-magic-reindeer-food-tradition.html">Put A Bird On It</a>. It's so simple and quick to make. Then the kids just throw it out on the lawn for the Reindeer to have a special treat. The Princess was so excited to try this tonight.<br />
I was also going to try to do the leaving cookies for Santa thing, but in all of the craziness, the cookies did not get baked. But I'll try to do better next year.<br />
<br />
The third tradition I started this year, was to read a new Christmas book before bed. I purchased "The Night Before Christmas" for her and her Daddy read it to her. I think she really liked having a new book to read that was all about Christmas.<br />
<br />
Next year I would like to do maybe one or two more things, like maybe an advent calendar of activities, and doing the Christmas lights express with hot chocolate and jammies. But, we will have to see how it goes.<br />
<br />
What fun traditions do you do with your families? What ones would you like to start doing?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-22125637744891298332013-12-20T13:03:00.000-08:002014-02-16T15:32:22.889-08:00The BeginningIt all started one day in April of 2006. I was a sophomore in high school, and just started my first job. I worked at Ream's Grocery, our local store. I noticed this really cute boy talking with the manager, and I couldn't stop staring. He was making everyone around him laugh, and he was laughing the loudest. Then one day he started bagging for me at my check stand, I was a cashier, even though he was not a bagger, but worked in the Western Wear department. From then on I would always ask to work the check stand nearest him and he always came over to bag for me. He got into trouble numerous times, but always came back. We talked and flirted for a while. He would come and sit with me in my breaks and would walk me to the door when my dad came to get me after my shift. Everyone started to notice, and started teasing us and saying we should just go out already!<br />
<br />
I remember one night the manager was really getting after him to just ask me. He walked me to the door, and I remember standing there waiting. I kept thinking over and over, just ask me. But he just told me to have a good night.<br />
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Finally after about two weeks of talking and flirting, he finally brought up the subject of us dating. He asked me what I thought of what everyone was saying about us dating. I asked him if he would want to and he said yes. So, I told him that I thought we should.<br />
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Then he finally asked me on a date that following weekend. I was so excited. It was going to be my first date. Then I thought, crap now I have to tell my Dad!!<br />
My Dad came in to buy some groceries, so I decided that was the perfect time to tell him. So I asked if we had any plans that weekend. Then I told my Dad I had a date with Jake that weekend. Jake was bagging for me at the time, so he was standing right there. My Dad turned and looked at him and said Hi. Then he turned back to look at me. When I had said that I had a date, he had just swiped his card. He looked at me for a few seconds, then said he couldn't remember his pin. I was trying so hard not to laugh! I told him the pin, then he said he would be back to pick me up after my shift. But he handled it well.<br />
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Our first date was dinner and bowling. We had a lot of fun. We got more comfortable around each other as the night went on. I remember one moment when we were high-fiving for one of gets a good score, when he held onto my hand for a few extra seconds. Boy did my heart beat go crazy after that. On the ride home I made sure to sit in the middle seat of his truck, right next to him.<br />
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From then on we dated all through high school. He went to Hunter High and I went to Cyprus High. Two big rival schools! He was with me through everything that I went through during those years.<br />
I got into a big fight with two of my best friends, and ultimately stopped being friends with them. My parents health went down hill dramatically and they ended up selling the house. I moved many times in the years following that. But Jake was my rock through it all.<br />
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We graduated in June 2008 and I quit Ream's a month later, Jake had quit a while before that. Then I got a job at a Veterinary Hospital, which I still work at. We got married in December after we graduated and rented an apartment together.<br />
Then in June 2009 we welcomed our beautiful baby girl into our family. In December of 2009 we bought a house! Then in October of 2012 we found out we were expecting another baby! In June 2013 we welcomed a baby boy to our family.<br />
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I am now a stay at home mom to a four year old girl, and 6 month old boy. I absolutely love being able to stay home with both of my kids now. I was unable to do that with my daughter, and I hated having to leave her with someone else while I went to work.<br />
This time with two kids, we couldn't afford for me TO work. I would literally be working to pay for daycare. So I get to spend every day with my kids. They drive me nuts sometimes, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I love my husband so much. He still makes me laugh every day. He works hard to make it alright for me to stay home with our kids.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6591502306689883550.post-1391030603183659652013-12-12T22:44:00.000-08:002014-02-16T15:32:56.712-08:00The "Elf on the Shelf"I am sure you have heard of it by now. Santa's little elf that lives at your house during Christmas time, and watches over the children and reports their behavior to the big guy.<br />
I first heard of this tradition last Christmas. I didn't really know what it was all about. I just knew that mothers were going a little crazy over this little elf doll. It was all over Pinterest and facebook. There were pictures galore of this little elf getting "caught in the act" of doing something. Whether it was naughty or cute.<br />
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My first thought was, "OK that's a little weird." This creepy little elf sits on a shelf in your home and watches your kids. Isn't it enough that Santa knows when they are sleeping or awake, and if they have been good or bad?<br />
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Then I heard more of the story, and read moms reporting how helpful it is during such a stressful time of year. They said it's a fun tradition to start with children, and gives them that extra edge to keep children in line.<br />
So then I thought I would look into it. And decided not to purchase and elf due to the outrageous cost. Really?! $30 for a little elf doll. You have got to be kidding me! There was no way I was going to spend that much money for that!!!!<br />
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Then the weekend after Thanksgiving, my Mother-in-law sends me a text saying she bought one for my daughter. At first I wasn't sure I wanted to participate. I mean, that's just more work for me, right? So I thought about and decided I would give it shot. It couldn't hurt, and if it worked, well then great!! I could definitely use some help in the behavior department with my "Little Princess."<br />
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So that Sunday we introduced the Princess to her new Elf friend. Her Auntie read the story of the Elf to her. It was so precious to see her face light up and the book explained who she was and why she was here. And her reaction to the no touching rule was priceless. She was in fact holding the elf while the story was being read to her. As Auntie got to that part, she looked down at the elf, then turned and very gently set her down on the table and then folded her arms. She was so worried that she had already ruined the "Magic."<br />
We then told her that it doesn't start until we get her home so she could still hold her if she wanted to. But she still didn't want to touch her very much after that.<br />
Then came the part where Princess gets to name the elf. She picked out the name "Bianca", after a stuffed kitty she has. I thought that was an adorable name for the elf. But then just before we were leaving to go home she says she wants to change her name to "Pebbles." Because Auntie had brought up the Pebbles and Bam Bam dolls. So we told Princess she had until we got home to decide what the name would be, but as soon as we were home she could not change her name again.<br />
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So we now have Pebbles the elf roaming our house. Then I started thinking about the personality of our elf. Should she be a naughty elf, like so many others? Making messes and getting into things? Or will she be a good elf? Making friends and bringing presents?<br />
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Why on earth would I make the elf naughty? Isn't she supposed to encourage good behavior? How is her getting into trouble OK but not for Princess? What is that going to teach her? And why would I want to spend that much time thinking of the idea, setting it up, then cleaning it up and having to explain to my four year old that she is not allowed to do what Pebbles has done? NO THANK YOU!!<br />
So our elf is a nice elf. She is kinda boring and just sits in different places around the house. I don't have the time or the energy to make all of these cute and creative "situations" that everyone else comes up with. I'm lucky if I get her moved by the time Princess gets up!! And I have already forgotten once. I had to tell Princess that she liked the spot and didn't want to move yet!<br />
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But I do have to say that she has helped out. I just remind Princess that she is watching and reports to Santa every night. That usually gets her attention!! And she loves looking around for her every morning. Luckily she is only four and finds simple things funny, so I don't have to get to creative!<br />
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I started out thinking the Elf on the Shelf was a little weird and creepy. But once I saw the excitement from my Princess, I realized this could be the beginning of a sweet and fun family tradition. Something I had very little of when I was a kid.<br />
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What do you think of the Elf on the Shelf tradition? And what do you think about the "Naughty vs Nice" ideas?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFwT-h5Eu9_y43DSzveMm-hJxohG2dYBbqMLQ1bHS4EhVkxQztBkVpbCsB8zhyUE-C_JoTxpi9pTJ30cEK09gCu-70Z1lDjsSRm9PY-PNmYo1JDnF-VYwMa7x7tUZhbRo4ggH2mSmI5A/s1600/IMG_20131201_203147_574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFwT-h5Eu9_y43DSzveMm-hJxohG2dYBbqMLQ1bHS4EhVkxQztBkVpbCsB8zhyUE-C_JoTxpi9pTJ30cEK09gCu-70Z1lDjsSRm9PY-PNmYo1JDnF-VYwMa7x7tUZhbRo4ggH2mSmI5A/s640/IMG_20131201_203147_574.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess meeting her Elf </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQ3lyFUlIzrBIeaNpj_WVAfn8Y29Jjs5uaqotDz2rON4bPMdsHOSDZvsKNnjxCbRoEJ0yYx3TX-_6om-PyINqxosqSQaJPwHnXvWk-RahoZ5-x5hZg5IqYBrcQu65OS9pwfHuxY5j0U0/s1600/IMG_20131202_121032_034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQ3lyFUlIzrBIeaNpj_WVAfn8Y29Jjs5uaqotDz2rON4bPMdsHOSDZvsKNnjxCbRoEJ0yYx3TX-_6om-PyINqxosqSQaJPwHnXvWk-RahoZ5-x5hZg5IqYBrcQu65OS9pwfHuxY5j0U0/s400/IMG_20131202_121032_034.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is where she found her the first morning.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlL6T-W7YTq6IQ9h5GUoWlA-p0zSzf1-d7F3UKN7X-OpwNZX_WNJZiuEpQ0sdVbwlSWDFVXnNUETrUnem9xsQ-e3solOZl2Wo4wPzAWiYyHteq00Q2sjEFvRQ1sryrtiXYK4OUBwCODFo/s1600/IMG_20131202_172855_852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlL6T-W7YTq6IQ9h5GUoWlA-p0zSzf1-d7F3UKN7X-OpwNZX_WNJZiuEpQ0sdVbwlSWDFVXnNUETrUnem9xsQ-e3solOZl2Wo4wPzAWiYyHteq00Q2sjEFvRQ1sryrtiXYK4OUBwCODFo/s400/IMG_20131202_172855_852.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She found Pebbles watching TV with Belle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGElTPGlnAJLypvCv322cp-e4Ta71VkNVKLhmV0i9kW9hWetuoIkXJXMtMJvJD3SyTKqfOJSIdlu844gwJcnngA7Zjtn4A1pyt2t8oT8FcvybbzNX2NWwoj7-HDjqbJ7MAJc_b_3Tlxo/s1600/IMG_20131202_235503_746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxGElTPGlnAJLypvCv322cp-e4Ta71VkNVKLhmV0i9kW9hWetuoIkXJXMtMJvJD3SyTKqfOJSIdlu844gwJcnngA7Zjtn4A1pyt2t8oT8FcvybbzNX2NWwoj7-HDjqbJ7MAJc_b_3Tlxo/s400/IMG_20131202_235503_746.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one really worried Princess. She was afraid little brother<br />
would pull her down and ruin her!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15162256016675259560noreply@blogger.com1